An often misunderstood animal, most of what people believe to be true about bats is not. In fact, the fear of bats is often times far more dangerous than the bats themselves. People have broken legs in frantic “escapes” and nearly drowned when they fell off boat docks in reaction to bats that were merely feeding on mosquitoes.

There are nearly a thousand different kinds of bats throughout the world that account for nearly a quarter of all mammal species.  The most common kind here in Northern Michigan is the Little Brown Bat which average about 3 1/2 inches long from nose to tail.

One of the biggest misconceptions about bats is that they will attack and bite humans.  Bats are like any other wild animal in that they will only bite if they are sick or in self-defense when someone tries to pick them up.  If you find a bat, the best idea is to just leave the bat alone. Leave a window or door open and the bat will find its way out.  Like all wild animals, bats can carry the rabies virus and should only be handled with leather work gloves.  If you are bitten you should seek prompt medical attention.

Bats are most active at night when they provide their greatest service for people, eating an immense amount of insects.  The average size bat can eat anywhere from 500 to 1000 mosquitoes per night, about half there own weight.  If you would like to invite bats to reside in your yard, you should put up a bat house.  The ideal spots for a bat house are high in a tree, under the eaves of your house, sheds, and barns, on the side of silos, windmills, etc. They should be placed approximately 10 to 15 feet or more off the ground, facing east or southeast so they receive morning sun.  Be sure the entry is clear of any obstructions such as branches and leaves.

If you have any questions or concerns in your quest for bats, please feel free to call us at (231) 347-0590, drop us a line, or drop by and we will help you out.

Keep havin fun!
The Crew of Sturgeon River